Genetic Testing Explained

November 23, 2018

Genetic Testing Explained

So, you’ve decided to start a family. Congratulations. We here at Ferny are glad that you are considering choosing us to help you on this journey to pregnancy. One of the things that we offer here at Ferny is a variety of tests and treatments related to genetics. If you are worried about your baby potentially having a genetic disease, we can help with that. We can perform tests to help you determine if this will happen and will be able to advise you through the journey. In this article, we will explain how this works and the benefits of genetic testing.

What Is Genetic Testing?

Genetic testing will allow professionals to see if your baby could have a genetic disease or disorder. This is done to make sure that the parents have all the information before they choose to get pregnant. It is also for people who are worried about passing a genetic disease onto their child. We can test for this, and if the condition gender specific, we can even offer you gender selection so that starting a family this way is still possible.

How Does It Work?

If you opt for gender testing, you will have a PGS/PGD. This stands for Preimplantation Genetic Screening/Diagnosis. First, you will have a blood test to check your carrier status as a parent who could carry a disease that could be passed down, and even you might not know if you have any of these. After this, the IVF will be done, and a small biopsy of the embryo will be taken. This biopsy will be screened for the whole genome, and if there are any abnormalities, they will show up on the results. This whole process can be a nerve wrecking, but a member of our highly qualified team will be with you the whole way to comfort you and make sure that you are okay.

What Is PGD/PGS And What Are The Benefits?

PGS and PGD both require IVF and a biopsy of the embryo for the test. PGS is used to make sure that the pregnancy will not be affected by any structural chromosomal abnormalities. PGD is used to make sure that the pregnancy will not be affected by any specific genetic characteristics. This can include things like known heritable mutations or conditions. So to put it simply, PGD is testing that there is no condition that the baby will have inherited and PGS is checking that there is nothing wrong with the structure of the chromosomes. When Ferny performs a PGS, it is tested for over 250 genetic diseases to make sure that you have the best scope possible. By doing this, you will know if there are any issues or problems and can then be advised on what the next step will be. It will give you the answers you need to start your family.

We hope that you find this article helpful and understand more about genetic testing. If you have any further questions about the genetic testing treatments that Ferny offers then get in touch with us by phone or by email.

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Treatments for infertility are achieving greater-than-ever success rates. The Ferny fertility clinic of Manhattan, NYC is at the very forefront of these advances, helping couples and individuals, including same-sex partners, realize their dream of having a baby.